Heavy Drinkers Live Longer Than Nondrinkers
A study has found that people who drink a lot of alcohol tend to live longer than people who never touch the stuff. So much for not burning the candle at both ends. But don't go crashing that frat party just yet: People who drink in moderation, as in one to three drinks a day, live longest of all.
A study has found that people who drink a lot of alcohol tend to live longer than people who never touch the stuff. So much for not burning the candle at both ends. But don’t go crashing that frat party just yet: People who drink in moderation, as in one to three drinks a day, live longest of all.
Your support matters…Time:
The sample of those who were studied included individuals between ages 55 and 65 who had had any kind of outpatient care in the previous three years. The 1,824 participants were followed for 20 years. One drawback of the sample: a disproportionate number, 63%, were men. Just over 69% of the never-drinkers died during the 20 years, 60% of the heavy drinkers died and only 41% of moderate drinkers died.
These are remarkable statistics. Even though heavy drinking is associated with higher risk for cirrhosis and several types of cancer (particularly cancers in the mouth and esophagus), heavy drinkers are less likely to die than people who have never drunk. One important reason is that alcohol lubricates so many social interactions, and social interactions are vital for maintaining mental and physical health. As I pointed out last year, nondrinkers show greater signs of depression than those who allow themselves to join the party.
Independent journalism is under threat and overshadowed by heavily funded mainstream media.
You can help level the playing field. Become a member.
Your tax-deductible contribution keeps us digging beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that unearths what's really happening- without compromise.
Give today to support our courageous, independent journalists.
Health & Wellness
Adults who consume alcohol legally and responsibly outside of work aren’t penalized by employers. It should be no different for marijuana.
Global Voices
Why women in India who wanted a ban on alcohol now regret it.
America's prohibition on pot has wasted billions of dollars and unjustly harmed millions of lives, all while furthering racist policies.
If we taught men better ways of "being a man," we wouldn't have to teach women to cover their drinks.
Politics
Counseling and other services allow women to reclaim control and even develop a new purpose in life.
Sufferers of multiple sclerosis who consumed hard liquor experienced a degree of relief from disability, researchers report.
You need to be a supporter to comment.
There are currently no responses to this article.
Be the first to respond.